Pathways to Memory
Pathways to Memory is a cognitive enhancement program for those suffering from Alzheimer's disease or any other memory-impairing condition. Because Alzheimer's disease affects people differently, Pathways targets specific deficiencies. This is a great program because it works. It slows the progression of the disease and helps those suffering deal with it and interact with family and friends. It gives people back a little bit of their pre-disease lives.
One of my first Pathways clients was my mom. The difference with her was dramatic. In December of 2007 she and dad came to Sunday dinner and sat on the couch. When dinner was on the table, they came and ate. Mom spent much of her time sleeping on the couch. She didn't interact with other very much. About six weeks into the Pathways program, I noticed a difference on Sunday. Mom was up and asking what she could do to help. She washed potatoes, set the table, cleared the table. She interacted with family.
After the full 12 week program ended, we took a break. Mom then had a heart attack and spent about a week in the hospital. When she next came to dinner, there she was on the couch, not offering to help.
Within a couple of weeks, we started up Pathways again. This time it only took a couple of weeks to get mom back up and helping with Sunday dinner. It was a dramatic change.
I believe in the Pathways to Memory program. In fact, we had offered it to clients as an additional premium service. I decided it was too important not to have everyone possible take part. Last August 2008, I changed our policy to give it free to any client who wants it. I don't offer it as a stand-alone program.
Actually, that may change. We may offer it at assisted living facilities. Check out my next post.